Portrait Lens

[590]

Hi all,

If I wanted to take some portrait photos like:

http://www.michaelpollard.co.uk/files/gimgs/11_actorheadshots07.jpg

http://www.michaelpollard.co.uk/files/gimgs/11_actorheadshots08.jpg
(One on left)

Would a 17-200mm lens be OK (as my other lens is a 35mm and I don't think that is ideal?)? I am not looking to take extremely professional photos but as a hobby as I want to learn how to use my D7000. If so, at what mm should I use it and what settings are usually ideal?

Thank you!

 

[paulminus273]

If you have the space to use it I think 80-100mm gives a flattering look.
Others may disagree

 

[Ivan S]

The Nikon 50mm f1.8g lens should do you well, it will be 75mm on the D7000, seems about right.

 

[magicaxeman]

The 85mm f1.8 is a cracker for head & shoulders shots.

 

[MJWC1]

The 85mm f1.8 is a cracker for head & shoulders shots.

But maybe a tad long on an APS-C???

 

[PaulButler]

An 85mm f1.8G would be fine if there is enough room. Before I traded my D7000 I tried the Tamron 60mm f2 macro to see how it would go for portraits and I thought it was excellent so that may also be an option.

 

[590]

Thanks all, I will try taking photos at 60mm and 85mm and if it doesn't look great, I will invest in one of the above lens!

 

[philthejuggler]

I think your 17-200 zoom set at the long end and stopped to f8 would give very similar results to those in the links.